The ACT Brumbies held tough in the final moments to all but end the NSW Waratahs' season with a 21-14 loss in Sydney.
The hosts fought back late; however, inaccuracy cost them after they were unable to finish their chances.
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So what did we learn?
The Brumbies are slowly finding the form that saw them as contenders at the start of the year.
Their defence was rock solid, making over 200 tackles and turning the Waratahs over at crucial times.
They look fresher off the bye, and they needed to be, stepping up to secure their spot in the top six, even if they were made to work for it.
A final-round clash against Moana Pasifika can build momentum, although it’s a dangerous game in what could be Moana’s farewell.
Tom Wright showed plenty of signs of the world-class talent that lit up Test Rugby in the gold jersey.
He was on early and should’ve had a try assist to Kadin Pritchard if not for a Jack Bowen wonder try-saver. The fullback was the main culprit in causing Charlie Gamble’s yellow card, combining with David Feliuai and directing the centre into running the right lines.
Even his smarts to quickly take the goal-line dropout came up trumps as he bombed it 50 metres into touch and safety.
Wright said during the week he wouldn’t let his extended time on the sidelines affect his decision-making and it came up triumphs.
The battle with Max Jorgensen was excellent, with the Waratahs fullback coming up with his own individual brilliance.
The NSW Waratahs couldn’t get the job done but you certainly can’t say they didn’t fire a shot.
They were throwing the ball around, trying everything to find a way over the line, however that was the problem.
It took double-digit entries into the Brumbies 22 before they came away with their first points, and when they did get on a roll, it was too late.
The fight shown was admirable, with several big try-savers keeping them in the battle.
However, that performance sums up their way; creating plenty but nothing to show.
Not many are more deserving of a fitting milestone try than Allan Alaalatoa as the Brumbies warrior delivered again.
It was one of its typical one-metre tries but it was his work beforehand that was critical.
He sparked their attack early in the first half with a rare line break that nearly led to the opener. His scrummaging was on point all night, drawing a continual flow of penalties.
He’s one of the most important men for the Wallabies in 2026.
Attention everyone, can you play hooker at a professional level? Well, the Waratahs need you after another hooker injury.
Ioane Moananu came into the game with a knee injury; however, he limped off the field midway through the second half, leaving them with none of the contracted hookers fit for next week’s trip to Perth.
Oniti Finau has stepped in with Ethan Dobbins and Folau Fainga’a out, with coach Dan McKellar likely having to call back into Shute Shield for another replacement.
Ken Catchpole Medalist Wes Thomas and Australia U20s hooker Tyler Maybery are among the options.
